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I. Anatomic Structures of the Temporal Bone

The anatomy of the temporal bone is quite complex, as several critical

neurovascular structures are associated with the petrous region.

Furthermore, the temporal bone is a collection of bones with variable

characteristics resulting from bone density, sutures, aerated spaces,

and foramen. The temporal bone articulates with the occipital, parietal,

sphenoid, and zygomatic bones and contributes to the middle cranial

fossa, posterior cranial fossa, and skull base (Figure 6.1). Sequelae of

temporal bone fractures are primarily related to the structures housed

in the temporal bone, which include the cochlea, vestibular system,

ossicles, tympanic membrane (TM), facial nerve, petrous carotid artery,

sigmoid sinus, and jugular bulb. Although the 9th, 10th, and 11th cranial

nerves have a close association with the temporal bone and exit the

jugular foramen, they are rarely involved in temporal bone fractures.

Figure 6.1

Lateral view of the left temporal

showing the squamous, mastoid,

and tympanic portions in relation

to surrounding structures. The

petrous portion is not visible

from this view.

A. Components and Important Relationships of the

Temporal Bone

The temporal bone is a complex bone composed of four portions, each

with important relationships. Relevant associations and structures

housed in the temporal bone appear in bold in Table 6.1.